UPDATE: Lynnette Vuradin has been named the top volunteer at the 2025 NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards, held at the Gosford RSL Club earlier this week. Vuradin, a dedicated Patrol Captain with the Shelly Beach Surf Club, is celebrated for her relentless commitment to beach safety and her mentorship of new surf lifesaving volunteers.
As a founding member of the Ladies on Patrol group, Vuradin empowers women in surf lifesaving, while also serving as an age manager, events official, and rescue watercraft operator. Her involvement extends to the Beach to Bush program, where she educates school-aged children in regional New South Wales about beach and surf safety.
The annual awards, organized by the Centre for Volunteering, recognize the invaluable contributions of volunteers from various organizations throughout the state. This year marks the 19th iteration of the event, honoring thousands of dedicated individuals.
In addition to Vuradin’s accolade, several other standout volunteers were recognized. Tahlia Blanshard from Jilliby received the Young Volunteer of the Year award for her six years of service with the Cerebral Palsy Alliance. Blanshard not only supports physical activity and fitness programs but also competes as a key defender with the Australian ParaMatildas football team.
The Senior Volunteer of the Year award was presented to Laurie Sweet from Gwandalan, who dedicates his time to multiple projects, including teaching sustainable fishing practices through Fishcare NSW. Sweet also assists families in need by preparing support packages and restoring essential items through We Care Connect. His advocacy for local community issues has been instrumental for the Gwandalan and Summerland Point Peninsula Improvement Group.
The prestigious title of Emergency Volunteer of the Year went to the Marine Rescue Hawkesbury, which consists of 50 volunteers available 24/7 to respond to emergencies along the 110 km of the Hawkesbury River. Their efforts extend beyond boating incidents to include flood responses and medical emergencies in isolated communities.
The Fairhaven Op Shopping Village Volunteers were named Volunteer Team of the Year for their work in sorting and selling donated items to support disability services. Their mentorship of new volunteers fosters confidence and practical skills for employees with disabilities.
Gemma Rygate, CEO of the Centre for Volunteering, emphasized the vital role of volunteers, stating, “Volunteers are the quiet force… Their dedication isn’t just admirable; it underpins a more resilient and compassionate society.”
New South Wales Minister for Volunteering, Jodie Harrison, expressed gratitude to all recipients for their contributions, stating that their efforts make NSW “the best state to live and work in.”
Looking ahead, Central Coast award recipients will have the opportunity to represent their region at the state gala ceremony later this year, where the overall NSW Volunteer of the Year will be announced across all categories.
This year’s awards not only highlight individual accomplishments but serve as a reminder of the powerful impact volunteers have on their communities, inspiring others to get involved and make a difference.
